Written by: Gloria Kosir

This summer, University of Iowa College of Law 2L Stacia Drey worked as a summer associate at Lerman Senter, PLLC, a communications law firm in Washington, DC. Unlike many summer externships, Drey earned her position through the Federal Communications Bar Association’s (FCBA) technology, media, and telecom (TMT) Law & Policy Pipeline Program.

The Pipeline Program is a competitive internship initiative that connects accepted applicants with paid internship opportunities in the TMT law and policy sector. Among her talented cohort, Drey was spotlighted as a standout student in the program. 

“The TMT Pipeline Program gave me a seat at tables I never dreamt I would be able to sit at,” Drey said. “I met some of the most talented, hardworking, and dedicated people in the field through the certificate program, FCBA events, and work with Lerman Senter. This program has truly changed my life.” 

Drey learned about the initiative through an Iowa Law student newsletter and was excited that it combined her two interests: working in DC as well as technology and media law. After applying in her 1L fall semester, she was accepted and interviewed with three DC-based companies. In preparation for her summer work, FCBA also provided virtual classes with media, tech, and telecom leaders during her 1L spring semester. 

“My experience in the program was fantastic,” Drey said. “I learned so much and was able to meet so many people.” 

As a summer associate, Drey involved herself in a variety of projects ranging from research to drafting client alerts. As part of her hands-on experience, she learned about the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) processes and attended congressional committee meetings and FCC open meetings. 

“I was able to learn from industry professionals who had a wealth of knowledge about communications law issues, and partners would spend the time to teach me about the background of the issues we worked on. It was such a good experience that I plan to return for my 2L summer,” Drey said. 

Since enrolling, Drey has been a staunch advocate of the program. She greatly encouraged other Iowa Law students to join her in applying and accessing the employment opportunities it provides. 

“This program is the perfect opportunity to explore a subject area and learn transferable skills that can be an asset no matter where your career takes you,” Drey said. 

Applications for the 2026-27 program are open until Oct. 25, 2026, on the program website. More information is also available in digital packets. 

“The FCBA community is the most helpful and genuine group of professionals I could have hoped to be a part of. It is a privilege to be in a group that cares so much about developing its younger members and that provides so much support for law students,” Drey said.